Almost half of the patients (490 out of 1,000) were not using asthma controller medications. Most of those not using controllers (79%) had persistent asthma; 47% had either mild or moderate persistent asthma.

Of patients who were using asthma controllers, only 14% were well controlled.

As expected, acute care utilization was greater for patients with persistent and poorly controlled asthma.

The CHOICE survey demonstrates for the first time the current extent of poor asthma control in the U.S., using the Expert Panel Report III (EPR 3) methods. This situation falls far short of national asthma management targets, and needs urgent improvement.

What can be done to improve asthma control?

A multifaceted approach is required. Here are some suggestions. Web-based interventions, such as educational videos and social networking, and reminders such as text messaging need to be explored in the quest to achieve asthma control targets.

Here is what we use at AllergyCases.org to improve patient understanding and technique of the use of asthma inhalers:

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